Derivative Financial Instruments (Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships) (Detail) - Cash Flow Hedging [Member] - USD ($) $ in Millions		3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
		Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Derivative [Line Items]
Increase (Decrease) in Derivatives Subject to Regulatory Treatment	[1]	$ 2	$ (1)	$ (2)	$ (3)
Interest Rate Contract [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Increase (Decrease) in Derivatives Subject to Regulatory Treatment	[1],[2]	$ 2	$ (1)	$ (2)	$ (3)

[1] Represents net derivative activity deferred into and amortized out of regulatory assets/liabilities. Amounts deferred into regulatory assets/ liabilities have no associated effect in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss).

[2] Amounts recorded in DESC’s Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) are classified in interest charges.